Question : WELFARE OF CHILDREN WITH AUTISM

(a) the details of the schemes being run for the welfare of children with autism, particularly educational schemes in the country;

(b) whether the State Governments and UT Administrations are taking adequate steps /making special efforts towards the education of such children;

(c) if so, the details thereof, State/UT-wise and if not, the reasons therefor;

(d) whether the Government proposes to formulate/launch a special scheme for autistic children in the country including Jharkhand; and

(e) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE AND EMPOWERMENT (SHRI SUDARSHAN BHAGAT)

(a) The National Trust for Welfare of Persons with Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Mental Retardation and Multiple Disabilities has been implementing a number of schemes for rehabilitation and empowerment of persons with Autism. Important Schemes of National Trust for welfare of children with Autism are: On-line Autism Information and Resource Center Portal

The Autism Resource Centre has been developed with a view to bring correct information to families and parents about autism. The portal address is www.autismresourecenter.in.

Aspiration- Early Intervention Program (Day Care Centre) for school readiness by early intervention has been conceived for children up to 6 years of age with ‘developmental disability’.

Gyan Prabha (Scholarship Scheme) to provide scholarship of Rs.1000/- per month for pursuing vocational training/professional courses leading to skill development and employment for persons with disabilities

Badhte Kadam a PAN India Multimedia Awareness Raising Programme to raise awareness among parents and persons with disabilities. This programme is conducted across the country in coordination with the State Nodal Agency Centers (SNACs) and Registered Organizations.

(b) & (c) The Ministry does not have detailed information regarding action being taken by States/UTs towards education of children with autism. However, every State/UT has been requested to set up State Level Coordination Committee (SLCC) for effective implementation and monitoring of schemes of National Trust.

(d) & (e) National Trust publishes a half page advertisement on World Autism Awareness Day on 2nd April every year. The advertisement describes characteristics of autism clearly to bring awareness among families about child autism. National Trust has also prepared a handbook for teachers for inclusion of children with autism which is also available on National Trust website.